Head of Special Collections and University Archives

Pepperdine University Libraries seeks an enthusiastic, innovative and experienced Head of Special Collections and University Archives to develop and manage the rare and special print collections, manuscript collections, an art collection and the Pepperdine University Archives. This position is responsible for providing curatorial, administrative, and managerial oversight for the library’s rare and special collections. The Head of Special Collections and University Archives reports to the Associate University Librarian for Collections and Technical Services.

Responsibilities: The Head of Special Collections and University Archives organizes and operates the department by managing budget expenditures, establishing department policies and standards, setting priorities, developing methods for encouraging use of the rare and special collections, and hiring and supervising staff. Through outreach to local archives, museums, and historical societies, this position maintains a leadership role in establishing regional partnerships for building the record of history and culture in the region, and will also be responsible for developing grant proposals to support special projects. This position promotes, publicizes, and expands awareness of collections by maintaining productive faculty relationships as well as creating and nurturing ties with the community and potential donors. This position also serves as liaison to students and faculty in one or more assigned subject areas; provides research assistance and information literacy classroom instruction in assigned subject areas; selects library materials in assigned subject areas; and provides weekly general reference service.

Salary and Rank: Commensurate with experience and qualifications. This is a full-time, ranked librarian position with generous insurance benefits and employer-funded retirement options.

Qualifications: Required: Master’s degree from an ALA-accredited institution; successful experience in a special collections department, archives, or museum; demonstrated ability in evaluating, selecting, and processing rare and special collections, including books, personal papers, and organizational records; knowledge of and experience with digital initiatives in special collections; and supervisory experience. Finalists must successfully complete a background check. Preferred: Advanced degree in an appropriate subject area; knowledge of standards of bibliographic control, preservation, and archival policies and procedures; knowledge of EAD, other metadata schema, and current practices; evidence of commitment to public service and the ability to work collaboratively with a variety of staff, faculty and researchers; an understanding of the role of the department in library fund raising; evidence of successful project management; and a record of professional contributions.

To Apply: This position is available immediately and will remain open until filled. Please send a letter of application, a resume, and the names and contact information for three references to Mark Roosa, Dean of Libraries, Pepperdine University, 24255 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA 90263-1392, or via email at Mark.Roosa@pepperdine.com.

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